Marina del Rey Homeless Encampment Sparks Fear and Frustration

Growing Concerns in Marina del Rey

• 😟 Residents in Marina del Rey are experiencing growing fear and frustration due to a large homeless encampment along the 90 freeway.
• 📈 The encampment has reportedly grown in recent years, spilling into nearby neighborhoods and causing concern that the situation will worsen.

Issues Stemming from the Encampment

• 🚨 Neighbors report experiencing burglaries, looting, and even physical attacks linked to the encampment.
• ⚠️ The area has seen incidents of illegal drug use and a significant fire, raising safety concerns.
• 🚲 Drone footage reveals tents, large amounts of trash, a potential chop shop for bicycles, and occasional violence.
• 🏠 Elderly residents have reported being attacked, contributing to a feeling of reduced safety in the community.

Calls for Action and State Involvement

• 🗣️ LA Councilwoman Tracy Park has sent two letters to Governor Gavin Newsom requesting assistance in clearing the encampment.
• 🏢 The property where the encampment is located is Caltrans property (state-owned), meaning the city lacks the jurisdiction to clear it independently.
• 🤝 Governor Newsom previously cleared a similar encampment in LA County and urged local leaders to take action or risk losing state funding.

Upcoming Clearing and Outreach Efforts

• 🗓️ Caltrans has announced plans to begin clearing dry brush at the site next week.
• 🚫 The encampment along State Route 90 is scheduled to be closed on November 19th.
• 💬 48 hours advance notice will be given to allow for social service outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness before the clearing.
• 🚧 Crews are expected to clear both the dry brush and the encampment itself next week.